Plus, 30 more police emergency radios; postpones contract expansion with U.S. DOJ police department monitor

Mayor Bernal participates remotely without prior notification but allowed due to “contagious illness”

 “I want to get Flock out of Antioch,” Councilwoman Torres-Walker said then voted for the new AI-assisted license plate reader system.

By Allen D. Payton

During their Tuesday night meeting, Aug. 25, 2026, the Antioch City Council approved the purchase of AI-assisted technology systems for the police department, a one-year 3% COLA pay raise for police officers, traffic calming devices for Sycamore Drive and 30 more police emergency radios. The council postponed approving the contract expansion with U.S. DOJ police department monitor. They also received some good news about the City’s investments, received and approved the 2025 Annual Military Equipment Report from the police department and approved the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan.

Bernal Participates Remotely Due to Illness

Only three council members attended in-person with Mayor Ron Bernal participating remotely, but his location was not included in the agenda as was required of District 1 Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker during the last two meetings. She participated remotely in the last council meeting from a resort and spa in Santa Cruz after proper notification. That followed her being denied the opportunity to participate in the prior meeting due to an error by Acting City Manager Ana Cortez, even though the councilwoman did provide her location prior to the meeting as required. However, different rules applied this time because Bernal was sick. (See related articles here, here and here)

Mayor Pro Tem and District 3 Councilman Don Freitas presided over the meeting, with only Torres-Walker and District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha in attendance and District 4 Councilwoman Monica Wilson absent.

At the beginning of Tuesday’s meetings, which started with a Closed Session at 3:30 p.m., Bernal was asked to confirm his attendance by Freitas. The mayor, via Zoom said, “I affirm my attendance. I, Ron Bernal, Mayor of the City of Antioch, am unable to attend tonight’s meeting due to a contagious illness and am appearing remotely under just cause pursuant to California Government Code Section 54953.8.3. My wife, Irma, will be the only person, the only adult in the room with me and I will participate via both audio and visual technology throughout the entirety of the meeting. Mr. City Clerk, I ask that you please record my remote appearance under just cause, in the official meeting minutes for the record. Thank you.”

“So noted,” City Clerk Michael Mandy responded.

“And your attendance, roll call,” Freitas asked.

“My attendance is remote tonight so Mayor Pro Tem Freitas will be presiding over tonight’s meeting,” Bernal added.

“It is affirmative,” Freitas responded.

“The mayor has confirmed his attendance,” Mandy stated.

“I am present,” Bernal responded.

The council then entered Closed Session to discuss employee group contracts and nine potential lawsuits. That was followed by a Special Meeting Study Session on the Fiscal Year 2027-28 General Fund Budget at 5:30 p.m. which was followed by the Regular Meeting.

Regular Meeting

Bernal repeated his confirmation to participate remotely at the beginning of the Regular Meeting which was again noted by Mandy.

City Attorney Lori Asuncion said there was nothing to report out from Closed Session.

Sales Tax Citizens Oversight Committee Appointment

The council then moved up Item 8 the appointment of Loretta Ezeife to the Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee after Item 2 on the agenda. She was appointed on a 4-0 vote of the council. Ezeife then offered remarks and thanked the mayor for nominating her and was given the oath of office by City Clerk Mandy while she was surrounded by her family members.

The council, under Item 5, received the Investment Performance Review presented by Justin Ressuelo, Institutional Sales and Relationship Manager of PFM Asset Management, the City’s advisors. The report shows the City has experienced Accrual Basis Earnings from its investments of almost $51 million over the past 10 years and earned $1.2 million in interest over the past three months, $4.9 million over the past year and $13.7 million over the past three years.

Traffic Calming Devices on Sycamore Drive

Rocha wanted to know why the traffic calming devices proposed for Sycamore Drive, under Item 6.H. on the Consent Calendar, were moved up ahead of those proposed for James Donlon Blvd.

“It will go out (for bid) this fall. Give us a year and we’ll have things laid out a bit better,” Public Works Director Scott Buenting stated.

Bernal asked about other traffic calming throughout town in response to complaints about sideshows in intersections throughout the city.

“They’re not built into the traffic calming,” Buenting responded, “We’re working through some geometry about that. It’s not a one-size-fits-all. Most likely it’s going to be bringing out something in the middle of the intersection like a speed bump. These would be done with bolt-down apparatus. I want to get something rolled out here fairly soon…in a couple different areas…that need some sideshow deterrent.”

The Council then voted 4-0 to award the construction agreement to Martinez-based Cowan & Thompson Construction, Inc. in the amount of $488,511.94, with a $25,000 contingency for a total contract amount of $513,511.94 for the Sycamore Drive Traffic Calming Improvements Project. The devices will be placed in eight segments along the street and will include signs and raised traffic separator curb guidance systems with quick release delineator bases.

Council Postpones Decision on DOJ Settlement Agreement Monitoring Consultant

Under Item 6.K. on the Consent Calendar agenda, regarding paying for the monitoring consultant required by the settlement agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) turned out to be a surprisingly controversial matter as Freitas expressed his adamant opposition.

According to the City staff report for the item, following the U.S. DOJ investigation into the Antioch Police Department beginning in April 2023, regarding text messages containing racist, sexist and discriminatory language. As a result in January 2025, the City, police department and U.S. DOJ entered into a Memorandum of Agreement requiring implementation of reforms related to constitutional policing, accountability systems, data collection, complaint investigations, community engagement, hiring practices, supervision and oversight.

A key requirement requires the City and U.S. DOJ to jointly select an Independent Consultant to provide technical assistance, compliance monitoring and implementation oversight.

On March 27, 2026, the City entered into a Settlement Agreement in the Allen, et al. civil rights class action lawsuit that incorporates many of the constitutional policing reforms and accountability measures already required under the DOJ Agreement and requires the existing DOJ Monitor also serve as the Monitor under the Allen Settlement Agreement. (See related articles here and here)

The council was asked to approve the First Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with MS Investigative Services and Consulting, LLC, to expand the scope of services to include Independent Monitoring services required under the Allen Settlement Agreement and authorizing additional compensation of $150,000 annually for monitoring services and the associated Fiscal Year 2026/27 General Fund budget amendment. If approved, the total compensation for the consultant would be $400,000 per year.

Bernal questioned paying the consultant monthly versus hourly.

Antioch Police Captain Shane Bower provided the staff report and answers to the council members’ questions.

“I have a very difficult time with a 71% increase, and I am absolutely opposed to $12,500 quarterly. He could be on vacation for a month and still get the $12,500,” Freitas stated. He also opposed paying the consultant hourly while driving from his home in Martinez to Antioch and instead wanted him to be paid the standard mileage rate.

“This is one of the most expensive consultant’s contract we have,” the Mayor Pro Tem added.

Bernal asked if the invoices can be brought back “to see how the billing has been going, so far.”

“Yes, I can bring that back,” Cortez stated.

“We have a five-year block of time. There’s a lot of additional work,” Bower responded.

“It’s in the report,” Freitas interjected.

“Mr. Sepulveda has already written the draft…that far exceeds the scope,” Bower said.

“It’s not my goal…to delay the satisfaction of the settlement,” Bernal responded.

“I support working with the existing consultant,” District 2 Councilman Louie Rocha stated. “Compensation seems to be the issue. It needs to be resolved.”

“Is that the standard in the City of Antioch? If it is it needs to come back for council discussion,” Freitas said about consultants being paid while driving to Antioch.

“There’s no doubt in my opinion that we need

“A majority of this agreement does not overlap with the DOJ agreement at all,” Police Chief Joe Vigil stated.

“As far as I’m concerned, there are concerns on the other side that we are dragging our feet. I’d hate to see us back in court,” said Torres-Walker.

“If a council member makes a request and it’s ignored, that causes a delay,” Freitas responded. “We also have a fiduciary responsibility, an oversight responsibility. I think those things need to be addressed.”

“I’m suggesting we are at risk of being in violation of the settlement agreement,” Torres-Walker stated and asked for a special meeting to discuss the matter.

Following agreement between Freitas and Cortez, the matter will return to a future council meeting for additional information and action.

Approves Police Department Technology Systems Purchase

Under Item 9. on the agenda, the Council received the staff report from Antioch Police Lt. Michael Mellone on the purchase of AI-assisted automated license plate recognition, in-car camera and integrated public safety technology systems. According to the staff report, the contract includes “55 fixed automated license plate recognition (ALPR) locations using Axon Outpost, six additional Axon Fleet 3 in-car video and mobile ALPR systems, and 120 Axon AI Assistant licenses for the Police Department, for a 49-month term beginning October 1, 2026, in an amount not to exceed $661,687.54.”

“I called for dash cameras so I’m glad there’ll be more of them throughout the city,” Torres-Walker stated. She then asked about Flock license plate recognition cameras and compliance.

“We are at the forefront of being compliant, not only with the Flock license plate readers,” Mellone responded. “We don’t share with ICE or any federal agencies. That data we collect in Antioch is staying here and not being shared with anyone else.”

“I’m excited to see there will be AI translation,” the councilwoman stated.

“It’s really cool. All the officer has to do is push a button on his body-worn camera and choose whatever language…and it will translate one-to-one,” Mellone explained.

During public comments, resident Kimberly Kit Bailey asked if the cameras “are only going to be in…the troubled areas or will they be all over the city?”

“They are in all locations of the city,” Mellone responded. “We try to cover all the major entry and exit points of town. All the major thoroughfares, all the major intersections. We’re not just concentrating on certain, specific neighborhoods.”

The next public speaker was Mike Katz-Lacabe, who said he is the Director of Oakland Privacy, described as “a citizens’ coalition that works statewide to defend the right to privacy, enhance public transparency and promote oversight regarding the use of surveillance techniques and equipment.” He said, “I urge a no vote…because the staff report does not provide enough information…to justify the $660,000. There was no competitive or comparison bidding process.” He also questioned “expansion of the surveillance program” and said APD’s claim that “Motorola is decommissioning their ALPR platform…is highly suspect” because “law enforcement agencies like L.A.P.D. are continuing to purchase and deploy…technology from Motorola.”

Katz-Lacabe further complained the “staff report lacks any analysis of the effectiveness of the currently deployed license plate readers.” He also said the technology could be and is being abused and used to stalk people.

Resident Frank Sterling, speaking via Zoom said, “I am concerned about mass surveillance. I’m learning more about Axon. But one thing I have been following…is the abuses are happening where people are taking advantage of the system. I think the possibility of abuse is still there.”

Mellone responded, “I think there are some very legitimate questions and concerns. I don’t think anyone in this room wants to have their movements tracked with specificity. I don’t think we want to live in that type of society. I know I certainly don’t. It does not track people. It tracks vehicle detections. It doesn’t track driver identity. It does not maintain a live location feed on a person.”

“Only an authorized investigator can review when and where a specific license plate was captured within the (30-day) retention period, and that search must have a legitimate purpose and it’s logged, audited and tracked,” he continued. “The system records a plate image, vehicle content image and visible vehicle characteristics and the time and location of a detection.”

Mellone then mentioned the system’s use in tracking the movements and identification of the driver in last Friday’s major injury hit-and-run collision with a pedestrian.

He also said the information from the system is available to the public.

“I understand the community’s concerns around hyper-surveillance,” Torres-Walker stated. “My position is I want to get Flock out of Antioch and if moving forward with this Axon system is going to do that with potential…reviews along the way and some guardrails to make sure we are not violating civil liberties…then I can support that. My main position right now is I really want to see Flock eliminated,” she reiterated then asked about reporting to the council.

“We’re doing that now,” Mellone stated. “We have a website with the Fock data, in spite of how controversial that is. Anyone can go to our website…we have a transparency portal.” That can be found here: Flock Safety – Antioch CA PD Transparency Portal.

“With the Axon system, it’s a closed system,” he added.

The councilwoman then asked for reasons for the sole source purchase.

Mellone explained, “There are a few reasons. We’re already using Axon’s body-worn cameras. We’re already using their digital evidence platforms. We trusted Axon with our most sensitive digital evidence. We’ve never had a data breach. All of our personnel are trained in that system. I don’t have to run audits on multiple systems.”

Councilman Rocha spoke next saying, “I support the sole-source justification and the way it’s written. It is what’s most attractive to me.”

He then made the motion to approve the purchase, and as Torres-Walker took a moment to consider seconding after Freitas asked if she wanted to, Bernal said, “I’ll second it.”

Before the vote, Freitas asked, “When will they be implemented? The first phase, I guess?”

Mellone responded, “I don’t have the exact information, the timeline. I can report back to council on that. I don’t think it’s going to be a lengthy implementation.”

Referring to Torres-Walker’s comments Freitas then suggested an annual report to the council, “giving us the detailed information, positive or negative” and asked “the maker and seconder of the motion to add that…from the date the system is implemented.”

Both Rocha and Bernal agreed to the amendment to their motion.

Bernal then asked, “What is the timeline for moving away from Flock with this new system?”

“I think a lot of it depends on how soon we can get the new system up and running,” Mellone shared. He said he didn’t want to compromise existing investigations and asked if either he or the chief could return to the council with an implementation schedule. He also mentioned the additional cost for the Flock cameras as another motivation to replace them.

“So, would the Flock cameras go first, then? Would that be the strategy?” Bernal asked.

“I will make sure that the people involved…will replace the Flock cameras as a priority,” Mellone responded.

“The existing Flock contract we have another 12 months,” Chief Vigil stated.

“But we could end that,” Torres-Walker asked.

“I’d have to get with the City Attorney on ending that,” Vigil responded.

Freitas then asked that the police department leaders return in the next few weeks with answers to the council members questions.

The amended motion then passed on a 4-0 vote.

Other Council Action

In other action, the Council voted 4-0 to approve the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and the Water Shortage Contingency Plan. The City’s water supply consists primarily of surface water diverted from the San Joaquin River and water purchased from Contra Costa Water District (CCWD). Untreated surface water from the San Joaquin River is pumped to the City’s Municipal Reservoir, where it is stored prior to treatment at the City’s Water Treatment Plant. This untreated surface water may also be routed to the Brackish Water Desalination Plant (BWDP).

Plus, except for Items 6.H. and 6.K., the Council also unanimously approved the Consent Calendar which included the following:

Item 6.I. – the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City of Antioch and the Antioch Police Officers’ Association including a 3% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for Fiscal Year 2026-27 at a cost of $661,430 and other matters;

Item 6.G. – the purchase of 30 additional Motorola APX N70 handheld two-way emergency radios for the police department’s communications, including accessories and five years of subscriber and device management services, from Motorola Solutions in an amount not to exceed $300,717.21;

Item 6.J. – received and approved the 2025 Annual Military Equipment Report from the police department. The equipment includes:

1. Armored Rescue Vehicle
2. Mobile Command Center box truck
3. Specialized Firearms and Ammunition:

A. Geissele Border Patrol Rifle. Quantity 26

B. Colt ArmaLite Rifle (AR)-15 rifle. Quantity 41

C. M4 AR-15 rifle. Quantity 6

D. Colt Commando Short Barrel (SB) rifle. Quantity 10

E. Heckler & Koch (H&K) UMP. Quantity 5

F. Remington 700 bolt action rifle. Quantity 5

G. Federal brand .223 caliber rifle ammunition. Quantity 326 cases

H. Speer Gold Dot .223 caliber rifle ammunition. Quantity 50 cases

I. Ruag brand .308 caliber rifle ammunition. Quantity 8 cases / 4000 rounds

J. Cobalt Kinetics Scrambler Quick Detach Suppressor. Quantity 35

4. Kinetc Energy Projectile Launch Platforms and Projectiles

a. Penn Arms Model L140-4. Quantity 20.

b. Remington 870 Less lethal Shotgun. Quantity 2

i. Both have orange stocks and foregrips and are identified as non-lethal munition launchers.

c. Projectiles

i. Combined Tactical Systems (CTS) direct impact sponge round. Quantity 200

ii. CTS Frangible CS round. Quantity 60

iii. CTS Ferrett round. Quantity 100

iv. CTS LC5 Launching Cups. Quantity 4

v. CTS 2600 12-gauge launch cartridge. Quantity 60

According to the report, “The Antioch Police Department used specific military equipment in five incidents (in 2025). An audit…found no complaints regarding deploying or using the listed equipment. Internal audits of the listed equipment regarding deployment and use did not yield any policy violations or deployment concerns.”

The council meeting was adjourned at 10:44 p.m.

See council meeting video.

DUI driver sideswiped another car, nearly hit pedestrian, drives wrong way

Held on $75,000 bail for 3 felonies, 3 misdemeanors

By Lt. Gary Lowther #4032, Antioch Police Field Services Division

On Sunday, August 23, 2026, at approximately 2:14 p.m., Antioch Police officers were dispatched to reports of a white Volkswagen Tiguan being driven erratically near the 1500 block of Yellowstone Drive in Antioch. According to callers, the vehicle had sideswiped another vehicle and nearly struck a pedestrian before continuing through the area.

Officers located the Volkswagen on Hillcrest Avenue near East 13th Street. The vehicle had two flat tires and significant body damage consistent with multiple collisions. When an officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop, the driver failed to yield, initiating a low-speed pursuit.

Despite the relatively low speeds, the driver continued to operate the vehicle erratically, including driving into oncoming traffic lanes while traveling along Hargrove Street toward East 18th Street. Due to the continued threat to public safety, officers continued the pursuit.

Officers deployed spike strips on East 18th Street; however, the driver avoided them by turning into the former Rite Aid parking lot near A Street and East 18th Street.

Once inside the parking lot, the vehicle slowed, allowing responding officers to box it in.

The driver, later identified as 39-year-old Felicia Marie Jackson (born 01/28/1987), attempted to escape by intentionally ramming a patrol vehicle. Officers safely removed Jackson from the vehicle and took her into custody.

Two patrol vehicles were damaged during the incident, and one officer sustained minor cuts from broken glass. No other injuries were reported.

Jackson was treated at a local hospital as a precaution and was subsequently booked at the Martinez Detention Facility on felony charges of Penal Code § 245(c) (Assault on a Peace Officer with a Deadly Weapon) and Vehicle Code § 2800.4 (Evading a Peace Officer While Driving Against Traffic) and misdemeanor charges of Vehicle Code § 23152(a) (Driving Under the Influence) and Vehicle Code § 20002 (Hit and Run). Incident Number: 2608230110. Case Number: 26-8011.

This information was made available by the Field Services Division.

According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the five-foot, six-inch tall, 175-pound Jackson is Hispanic, but is also listed as White, as does the Antioch Police CitizenRIMS arrest log, and is being held in the West County Detention Center on $75,000 bail and also charged with a third misdemeanor of 148(A)(1) PC resisting, delaying or obstructing a Peace Officer.

According to localcrimenews.com, she is an Oakley resident and was previously arrested in January 2025 for a Warrants or Holds Only.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

24-year-old Antioch woman in critical condition

By Captain Matthew Koch #3018, Antioch Police Field Services Division

On Friday, August 21, 2026, at 10:31 p.m., Antioch Police officers responded to a report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Hillcrest Avenue and the eastbound Highway 4 off-ramp. The involved vehicle fled the scene following the collision.

Upon arrival, officers located a 24-year-old Antioch woman lying on the sidewalk. Officers immediately provided medical aid until Con Fire personnel arrived. The victim was transported to an area hospital with major injuries and remains in critical condition.

Witnesses at the scene provided officers with a description of the suspect vehicle. Officers later located the vehicle in the 2800 block of Larkspur Drive in Antioch. The driver fled the area before officers could make contact. Investigators are currently reviewing evidence and working to identify the 40-year-old Hispanic male driver.

The Antioch Police Department’s Traffic Unit has taken over the investigation. The collision investigation remains ongoing, and the victim’s name is being withheld at this time.

Based on preliminary information gathered at the scene, speed and alcohol appear to be factors in the collision.

This information was made available by the Traffic Unit. Any further information or additional press releases will be provided by the Traffic Unit.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Antioch Police Department non-emergency line at (925) 778-2441 or Traffic Collision Investigator James Desiderio at (925) 331-7474, email jdesiderio@antiochca.gov.

According to the Antioch Police CitizenRIMS map, a separate non-injury hit-and-run occurred on Saturday night nearby in the 2700 block of Hillcrest Avenue. But the two incidents are not-related. The Incident Number for that is2608220202.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Female student issued citation

Pepper spray is legal in CA but not for minors to possess

Could face up to $1,000 fine and/or up to 3 years in prison for misuse, up to $2,000 fine and/or 6 months in county jail for battery

By Lt. Franco Cesar, Antioch Police Department

On August 21, 2026, at approximately 1:47 p.m., Antioch Police Department officers responded to Antioch High School following reports of multiple students exposed to pepper spray. The incident occurred in a school hallway during a passing period.

A preliminary investigation revealed the incident stemmed from an ongoing dispute between two students. During the altercation, pepper spray was deployed, inadvertently affecting several nearby students.

Officers identified seven students affected by the spray. Emergency medical personnel evaluated the victims on scene and transported three students to a local hospital for further evaluation and treatment. No serious injuries were reported.

Responding officers located the juvenile responsible for deploying the pepper spray. She was issued a citation for Possession/Use of Tear Gas by a Minor and Battery, then released to her parents. Due to the suspect’s age, her identity will not be released.

The Antioch Police Department remains committed to campus safety and continues to work in close partnership with Antioch Unified School District administrators during school incidents.

Case No.: 26-7951

According to the Antioch Police CitizenRIMS Map, the incident occurred at 1:38 PM and is listed as a misdemeanor possession of a weapon at school K-12 626.10(A)(1) PC and 243(A) PC – battery. Incident Number:2608210130.

Pepper Spray is Legal in CA But Not for Minors to Possess

According to Zarc International, “Pepper spray in CA is Legal. Subject to certain restrictions, Section 12403.7 of the Penal Code provides ‘any person may purchase, possess or use tear gas and tear gas weapons for the projection or release of tear gas if the tear gas and tear gas weapons are used solely for self-defense purposes.’

“The definition of tear gas also includes pepper spray. The restrictions include a prohibition against selling such a unit to a minor, and a provision limiting the size to 2.5 ounces by weight.

“The misuse of tear gas in California comes with state penalties of up to a $1,000 fine and/or up to three years in prison, not to mention a possible felony conviction on record. Some examples of misuse include: using tear gas on people in anger, spraying it as a joke, possession of tear gas by prohibited persons, minors, drug addicts or persons convicted of felonies.

“To be legally purchased, possessed or used in California, any canister must have a label that says ‘WARNING: The use of this substance or device for any purpose other than self-defense is a crime under the law. The contents are dangerous–use with care.’ The maximum legal net weight for a canister is 2.5 ounces, or 70 grams of OC, CS or CN. CR is not legal for civilian use.”

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Walnut Creek PD Bomb Squad assists again

Police seek unknown suspect, warn residents against vigilante justice following social media posts of videos showing “resident yelling and using racial slurs”

By Lt. Michael Mellone, Antioch Police Department

On Monday, August 17, 2026, at 10:11 a.m., Antioch Police Department officers responded to a residence in the Lake Alhambra area of Antioch after an incendiary device was reportedly thrown at the property. The device, preliminarily believed to be a large firework, exploded and caused minor property damage. No injuries were reported.

Officers secured the scene and collected evidence. The Walnut Creek Police Department Bomb Squad responded to assist with the investigation. APD officers have interviewed several witnesses, are collecting and reviewing surveillance video from the surrounding area and are pursuing several investigative leads. At this time, no suspect has been identified.

The residence is associated with several incidents from July 2026. One of those incidents, which recently received significant attention on social media, was addressed through the courts and resulted in a restraining order. In a separate incident involving a different victim, the same suspect was arrested for an alleged civil rights violation and battery. That case was referred to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office, which subsequently filed misdemeanor charges alleging violation of civil rights and simple battery. The criminal case remains pending.

A post on the Antioch Police Department’s Facebook page Sunday afternoon, Aug. 16, also asked people not to pursue vigilante justice. It read, “We are aware of videos circulating on social media involving a local resident yelling and using racial slurs. The Antioch Police Department is actively investigating the incident.

“We understand that these videos may be upsetting to our community. We ask everyone to please allow our investigators to do their job and not take matters into your own hands or harass, threaten, or confront anyone involved.

“If you have information that may assist our investigation, please contact the Antioch Police Department.

“Thank you for helping us keep our community safe and respectful.”

According to the Antioch PD CitizenRIMS map, the incident, Number: 2608170070, is classified as felony vandalism of $400 or more and occurred in the 90 block of E. Lake Drive.

According to Lt. Bill Whitaker, an arrest was made at the house on July 27th of the man who was the subject of the videos in which he can be seen making racist comments. According to the APD CitizenRIMS map, the arrest occurred at 6:12 PM and was for a felony assault described as, “Threaten Crime With Intent To Terrorize,” 422(A) PC – against immediate family or any other person who regularly resides in the household, 422.6(A) PC – a person, whether or not acting under color of law, shall not, by force or threat of force, willfully injure, intimidate, interfere with, oppress, or threaten any other person in the free exercise or enjoyment of a right or privilege secured by the Constitution or laws of this state, and 242 PC – battery. Case Number: 26-7027 and Incident Number: 2607270189. However, the arrest is not included in the list on the APD CitizenRIMS website.

Whitaker also shared that the incident is unrelated to what occurred on July 30, 2026, when the Antioch Police Department served a search warrant at a residence in the 4000 block of South Royal Links Circle as part of an ongoing investigation involving possible homemade explosive devices.

Investigators are examining whether today’s incident is connected to the recent social media attention surrounding the July incidents. While APD recognizes the strong public reaction, retaliation and vigilante acts are not an acceptable substitute for the criminal justice process. The July matters were investigated by APD and are being addressed through the appropriate legal processes.

UPDATE 1: One video posted on the bayarea_tv Instagram account shared semi-anonymously (without a name, just an email address) with the Herald Monday night, shows a man in the yard of a house cussing at someone video recording him while yelling profanity and racist epithets, and flipping off using both hands.

The description posted with the video reads, “Racist Neighbor in Antioch, CA. A Black homeowner says she has faced repeated harassment from her next-door neighbor, including being called the N-word and subjected to other insults. She says the behavior has continued despite having restraining orders against the neighbor. Video of one of the encounters has since circulated online, bringing attention to what she describes as ongoing harassment. What should happen in a situation like this?” (The Herald will not post a link to the video, just a screenshot so as not to repeat the vile comments). Lt. Whitaker confirmed he is the man who was arrested on July 27th.

Members of the public who have information or evidence are encouraged to provide it to law enforcement rather than take matters into their own hands. Harassment, threats, trespassing, property damage, or acts of violence directed at any person or residence may constitute separate criminal offenses and will be investigated accordingly. Such actions can also place uninvolved neighbors, including children and pets, community members, and first responders at risk.

Anyone with information about today’s incident is asked to contact the Antioch Police Department Investigations Bureau at (925) 779-6926 and reference Case No. 26-7784. Tipsters may remain anonymous.

Because today’s investigation remains active and the July criminal case is pending, APD is limiting the release of additional details that could compromise either matter. Additional information will be released when appropriate.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

By Carla Baker Marymee, Antioch Historical Society

The Antioch Historical Society presented a beautiful plaque to Antioch Police Chief Joe Vigil and Nahleen Cloninger to thank the Antioch Police Officers Association Community Engagement Team for their incredible support during a recent clean up at the Antioch Historical Museum! It was presented by Landscape Advisor Cesar Court.

Special appreciation to Nick Shipilov, who coordinated the effort and worked side-by-side with fellow officers Loren Bledsoe (ret.), Eric Nilsen, Rick Hoffman and his son, JJ Jeong, Arturo Becerra, Joshua Riosbass, and Brian Cruz-Guzman. These outstanding individuals recently donated their personal time to help care for our museum grounds.

We are deeply grateful for their generosity, hard work, and community spirit.

Our grounds and facilities require ongoing care. We’re asking for your help — even one day a month makes a difference. Special thanks to Cesar Court, our Landscape Advisor, who has been tirelessly maintaining the grounds with a small crew. If you’d like to assist, please contact Cesar at (925) 550-7821.

For more information about the Antioch Historical Society and Museum visit antiochhistoricalmuseum.org or www.facebook.com/antiochhistoricalmuseum.

Has victims in multiple states, history of arrests, already out of custody

By Antioch Police Department

On July 21, 2026, Lear Capital, a Los Angeles-based precious metals company, contacted the Antioch Police Department to report suspicious transactions they believed were fraudulent. Their employees noticed something was off, and instead of looking the other way, they picked up the phone and called us.

That call mattered. Detective Duff quickly connected the activity to victims in multiple states with combined losses of nearly $30,000. Within days, detectives served a search warrant at an Antioch residence and recovered stolen property, including $9,000 in gold, along with check-printing equipment, card readers, personal identifying information belonging to numerous people and two firearms.

Terrence Gordon Langston, 34, of Antioch, was arrested and the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office has filed felony identity theft and grand theft charges.

According to localcrimenews.com, he has a history of arrests by Antioch and Colma Police and the Contra Costa Sheriff dating back to 2017 for crimes including receiving stolen property – motor vehicle, receiving or concealing stolen property and for a bench warrant/failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge.

According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, he is Black and as of Aug. 4th at 5:07 PM has already bonded out of custody.

On Langston’s Facebook page, it shows he’s self-employed since January 2018 and he posted a video of himself talking about something he called “Money Mystery” and described as “the next generation of broadcast.” Langston said that he’s “been MIA for a minute…because I’ve been working on my own app” and was “in the beta-testing stages” and looking for “11 testers” to help him and “each week…giving out $11 to each tester.” Under Langston’s education it shows California State University, Northridge.

We want to thank Lear Capital for doing the right thing. Most identity theft victims don’t know they’ve been targeted until the damage is done. Alert businesses are often the first to spot it.

That’s the lesson in this case: early detection stops fraud. Here’s how to detect it early in your own life.

Freeze your credit. It’s free, takes about 10 minutes, and blocks anyone from opening accounts in your name. You can unfreeze it anytime.

Equifax: equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/credit-freeze

Experian: experian.com/freeze

TransUnion: transunion.com/credit-freeze

Sign up for USPS Informed Delivery. This free service emails you a photo of the mail arriving at your address each day, before it gets there. If something goes missing between the photo and your mailbox, you’ll know. Mail theft remains one of the most common ways criminals steal identities. Sign up at informeddelivery.usps.com.

Check your credit reports. You’re entitled to free weekly reports from all three bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com.

Look for accounts you don’t recognize.

Verify before you share. If someone calls claiming to be your bank, a company you do business with, or even law enforcement, hang up and call back using a number you find yourself. Legitimate organizations will never pressure you to stay on the line.

If it happens to you, report it at IdentityTheft.gov and file a report with your local police department. A police report is often required to dispute fraudulent accounts.

All defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Vote on spending over $500K for park and trail signage, $382K for police dep’t security system, appointing new member to Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee

By Allen D. Payton

Following a Closed Session at 4:30 p.m., during their Regular Meeting tonight, Tuesday, August 11, 2026, the Antioch City Council will discuss resuming downtown security services and vote on spending over $500,000 for park and trail signage, about $382,000 for Police Department cameras and appointing a new member to the Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee. That’s in addition to deciding where to use state park grant funds, either at the former Beede Lumber Yard in Rivertown or at City Park. (See related article)

Before their Regular Meeting at 7:00 p.m., during Closed Session, which begins at 4:30 p.m., the Council will discuss the City Attorney’s performance evaluation, nine potential lawsuits pertaining to possible Labor Code Section 1102.5, which protects employees from retaliation for reporting or refusing to participate in illegal or unlawful activities, and Fair Employment and Housing Act violations, as well as one possible lawsuit for a potential breach of contract and related claims.

Downtown Security Services Discussion

Under item 9 on the agenda, the Council will discuss resuming private security services to patrol City-owned parking lots in historic, downtown Rivertown. The previous contract and extensions ended on June 30th.

According to the City staff report, “In December 2022, in response to increasing concerns from Rivertown/Downtown business owners and visitors regarding criminal activity and quality of life issues occurring in and around City-owned public parking lots, the City Council directed staff to evaluate options to improve public safety and security in the area. One key strategy identified was the deployment of private security services to act as a visible deterrent, identify safety issues, monitor City-owned properties and promptly report incidents and safety concerns to the Antioch Police Department.

“Following a competitive process, the City selected Shield Protection & Public Safety, Inc., DBA Spearhead Protection, as the most qualified provider. The City entered into a professional services agreement with Spearhead Protection for services from January 9, 2024, through June 30, 2025, in the not-to-exceed amount of $100,068. On April 23, 2025, the City executed a first amended agreement, increasing the compensation by $49,932. On May 27, 2025, agreement (mislabeled as a first amendment), extending services through June 30, 2026, and increasing compensation to the not-to-exceed amount of $100,000.

“There is no direct fiscal impact of the discussion surrounding downtown security services. Should Council direct that the City resume security services and issue a request for proposal, the City Manager’s General Fund budget includes $102,500 for services, based on the pricing of the prior contract.”

“The previous contract provided security coverage seven days a week, including holidays, between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and midnight. Services include regular patrols of nine designated locations in the Rivertown/Downtown area by a uniformed guard in a marked security vehicle.”

New Police Department Cameras, Hardware & Software

Under the Consent Calendar item 5.F, the Council will consider approving a five-year agreement with Verkada-Development Group Inc. in the amount of $381,676.22 to purchase police department cameras, hardware and cloud-based operating system software for use inside the police facility and animal shelter for the period from September 1, 2026, to September 1, 2031

It requires authorizing a fiscal year 2026-27 budget amendment to roll over the FY 2025-26 Police Department General Fund budget to the Fiscal Year 2026/27 budget. The cost of the five-year contract is to be paid upfront with an average cost of $76,335.24 per year.

The contract will be with Redding-based Development Group, Inc., which designs and installs equipment by San Mateo-based Verkada.

According to the City staff report, “the Antioch Police Department’s existing Bay Alarm video surveillance system has reached the end of its useful life and is no longer capable of providing the level of security, reliability, and functionality required to support daily police operations. The system was originally designed as a 12-server, on-premises video management platform; however, eight of the twelve servers have failed and are no longer operational. As a result, the system has experienced a significant reduction in performance, reliability, and recording capability, creating substantial vulnerabilities in the Department’s security infrastructure.

“In addition to the server failures, much of the existing surveillance hardware has deteriorated due to age and prolonged use. Numerous cameras have exposed wiring, increasing the likelihood of equipment failure and presenting maintenance and safety concerns. The video intercom systems located at secure entrances, public access doors, and vehicle gates are also malfunctioning and no longer provide dependable communication or access control. These failures negatively impact the Department’s ability to monitor facilities, control access and maintain a secure environment for employees, visitors and members of the public.

“The Bay Alarm video management software and supporting platform are also obsolete and have exceeded their serviceable life. Replacement components are increasingly difficult to obtain, manufacturer support is limited or unavailable, and the system is no longer capable of supporting current security technologies or operational requirements.

“Due to the age and condition of both the hardware and software, continued repairs are no longer practical or cost-effective. The system is beyond repair and requires complete replacement with a modern, reliable video surveillance solution that provides enhanced security, improved operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability.

“Verkada…has built a unique end-to-end, cloud-managed security platform for monitoring and managing physical security. The Verkada integrated platform offers comprehensive solutions across video security (cameras), access control (door controllers and readers), environmental sensors (air quality monitoring), alarms (wired and wireless sensors, wired alarm panel, and wireless hub, as well as packaged monitoring offerings), visitor management, mailroom management, and video door intercoms.

“This platform includes a number of unique features, such as up to 365 days of continuous on-camera storage, a full range of indoor and outdoor cameras with night vision (dome, mini, bullet, split, and fisheye models), infrared LED isolation on 4K dome camera models, an offline mode that allows a user to view live streams via a viewing station even in the event of an Internet outage, and security screens for visitors. Verkada provides native integration across all those applications, including security cameras, access control, environmental sensors, alarms, visitor management, mailroom management, and video intercoms.

“Verkada is the only manufacturer of cloud-managed physical security solutions with all those features. These products are designed, manufactured, and sold exclusively by Verkada who holds various intellectual property rights in and to its products.

“Switching to Verkada provides a modern, scalable security platform that better aligns with current and future operational needs. Verkada’s cloud-managed system consolidates video surveillance, access control, and system management into a single, intuitive interface, reducing complexity and administrative overhead. This transition improves system reliability, simplifies maintenance, and ensures consistent performance across all deployed devices while allowing authorized personnel to securely access and manage the system from anywhere.”

New Park & Trail Signage

Under the Consent Calendar item 5.H., the Council will consider awarding the construction agreement for the Installation of Park Signage Project to the lowest, responsive and responsible bidder, Los Angeles-based Monarka Development Corporation DBA Express Sign & Neon in the amount of $498,860, with a $25,000 contingency for a total contract amount of $523,860.

It requires approving a budget amendment to the Fiscal Year 2026/27 Capital Improvement and Operating Budgets using Park-in-Lieu funds paid for by new development, in the amount of $187,000.

According to the City staff report, the project consists of the fabrication and installation of signage within parks and major trails throughout the city including Antioch City Park, Chichibu Park, Worth Shaw Community Park, Antioch Community Park and other designated trail locations.

Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee Appointment

Under item 6 on the agenda, Mayor Ron Bernal will to nominate the candidate of his choice, Christian Lapena, and the City Council will vote on adopting a resolution approving his appointment to the Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee for a full-term vacancy expiring March 2030.

According to his application, Lapena has lived in Antioch since 2021 and is the founder of the non-profit organization Herpaderp. According to their website, the exotic animal rescue organization based in Antioch, specializes in rescuing and rehabilitating animals such as turtles, lizards, snakes and other animals that are not native to the area or are not commonly kept as pets.

According to his LinkedIn profile, since Sept. 2024 he has worked as a Senior Support Engineer for Renascent Technology and since Oct. 2020 Lapena has worked as a contract Senior Support Engineer for the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative. In 2012 He earned an Associate of Arts and Sciences degree in network security from City College of San Francisco.

The Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee is responsible for reviewing the receipt and expenditure of funds under the City’s Measure W one-cent sales tax as they relate to the Council’s stated priorities outlined in the adopted budgets of the City. The Committee is responsible for reporting out the result of their review by April 1st of each year at a public meeting.

Committee members are responsible for the following duties:

• Reviewing annual sales tax revenue and expenditure reports.
• Monitoring compliance with ballot measure requirements.
• Providing transparency to the public regarding fund usage.
• Advising the City Council on accountability measures.

Each year, an independent auditor shall complete a public audit report of the revenue raised and its expenditure. The Committee’s review shall be completed in conjunction with the City’s budget process. The Committee’s report on its review, whether oral or written, shall be considered by the City Council at a public meeting before April 1 of each year. Any written report shall be a matter of public record.

The Committee consists of seven members who are Antioch residents. The terms of the Committee members are staggered with four members serving a four-year term and three members serving a two-year term. At least one member of the Committee shall have a financial, accounting or auditing background.

As previously reported, there are currently five more vacancies on the committee that the Council will be filling that include:

• Three (3) Full-Term Vacancies, expiring March 2030
• Two (2) Full-Term Vacancies, expiring March 2028

Applications are due this Friday, Aug. 14 at 5:00 p.m. To be considered for the vacancy position(s), please complete an application and submit it to the City Clerk’s Office by the deadline date listed above. Applications are also located on the City’s Website at www.antiochca.gov/739/Boards-Commissions and may be picked up in person at Antioch City Hall, 200 H Street, Antioch, CA.

Please email your completed application to: cityclerk@antiochca.gov. You can also drop off your application (Attn: City Clerk) in the water billing drop-off box located in the parking lot just outside of Antioch City Hall.

Meeting Details

The meeting will be held in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 200 H Street, in historic, downtown Rivertown and can be viewed via livestream on the City’s website or on Comcast cable TV channel 24 or AT&T U-verse channel 99.

See agenda packet.